PRIME Program Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
From the earliest days of our nation, the growth of the U.S. economy has been inextricably tied to technological innovation. What have changed over time are the fields of innovation, the institutions carrying out the work, and the environment that provides the driving forces for change. What has remained constant is the key role of scientists and engineers in the process. The prominent role that scientists and engineers play in innovation has led to their involvement in a much more comprehensive range of issues associated with the development of new products and the growth of technology-based companies. While enormously empowering, these developments place a new set of demands on new graduates. They are expected to have a broader range of skills, a greater sense of teamwork, and an awareness of a wide variety of information.
The PRIME Masters degree focuses on developing science and engineering graduates’ skills so as to prepare them to more efficiently participate in a complex and highly competitive technology-driven economy, based on the development of innovative, embryonic ideas.
The underlying educational platform of the PRIME Engineering experience focuses on innovation and development of embryonic ideas grounded in sophisticated science and engineering concepts. The ability to think broadly and creatively from a base of strong fundamentals is an oft-stated goal. However, application to industry practice without substantive experience is difficult. The PRIME experience is unique in that allows its students to comprehensively address the realities of value creation. It does so by taking embryonic ideas through the venture stage by having students work side-by-side with faculty and professionals from outside Brown.
The program curriculum can be accomplished in two semesters by completing the following eight courses:
- Business Engineering Fundamentals I & II
- Innovation and Technology Management I & II
- Technology Entrepreneurship & Commercialization I & II
- Emerging and Breakthrough Technologies
- Global Immersion Experience and Entrepreneurship Lab
The degree awarded is Master of Science in Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship Engineering.
Does an applicant for the PRIME program need to have an Engineering or Science background? Not necessarily, though a majority do. Students admitted to the PRIME program find it useful to have an undergraduate background in engineering or a science-related field, since the program is oriented to considering commercial opportunities that arise from developments in technology. Applicants who have experience in areas related to technology, but who do not have a degree in a technology field, are eligible. This particularly includes students with a design background.
Questions regarding application procedures, program fees and other administrative matters, please contact prime@brown.edu
Deadline for PRIME applications is February 1.
Note: Space is limited in this highly selective program. Applicants who submit after this date should note that there may no longer be vacancies.
| Attachment | Size |
|---|---|
| PRIME Alumni careers 8_18_11.pdf | 97.41 KB |